Book Blast: Their New Year's Beginning by Michelle Major

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Michelle Major will be awarding a $20 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

 

At the stroke of midnight, a stranger’s kiss changes everything…

Brian Fortune doesn’t think he will ever find the woman he kissed at his brother's New Year's wedding. So when the search for the provenance of a mysterious gift leads him into a local antique store a few days later, he's stunned to find Emmaline Lewis, proprietor—and mystery kisser! Surprise turns to shock when he realizes that she's also six months pregnant. Brian has never been the type to commit—and he’s really not ready to become a family man in one fell swoop! But suddenly he knows he’ll do anything to stay at Emmaline's side—for good…

Peek between the pages

I do need you. So much. Emmaline’s heart pounded with all the things she wanted to say to him. But those things would just make her look like a bigger fool. She’d already let her heart stay in the lead for far too long.

“I’m a soon-to-be single mother living in a small town in Texas.” She pointed a finger at him. “You’re a big-city bachelor who likes your freedom and your uncomplicated life. I’m a box of complications, Brian.”

“The past month has seemed simple enough to me,” he murmured. “Why does that have to change?”

Because I’m in love with you, she wanted to scream. But she didn’t. It was bad enough that she felt as though she was dying on the inside. She couldn’t bring herself to invite outright rejection from him. If he wanted more, he’d tell her.

“We’ve had fun,” she said, which was only a tiny bit of the truth between them. “I’ll keep up the research on the sculpture and let you know if I find anything.”

“That’s it?” He blew out a long breath.

“Is there something more?” she asked, hoping beyond hope that he’d give her some sign that her fears weren’t founded. All she needed was one tiny reason to launch herself into his arms and ask him to stay.

Their gazes held, and she could almost feel the current of electricity running between them. Emmaline wanted to believe that Brian would tell her something more. That he would give her what she needed to hear, the admission of love she was too afraid to say to him.

 

About the author: USA Today bestselling author Michelle Major loves stories of new beginnings, second chances and always a happily ever after. An avid hiker and avoider of housework, she lives in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two teenagers, and a menagerie of spoiled furbabies. Connect with her at www.michellemajor.com.

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Cover Reveal and Giveaway: Mirrors and Mysteries by Christina Bauer

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Christina Bauer will award a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. In addition, the author is running an additional giveaway to celebrate this cover reveal. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Isn't this cover stunning!

Rapunzel meets Jane Eyre in the epic conclusion of this fairy tale romance!

Grayson Eyre has left her old life behind. She’s no longer stuck serving Lady R, a sadistic Rapunzel from the Lowood clan of elves. Instead, Grayson now teaches at the Thornfield home for shifter orphans. Even better, her boss is none other than the sexy alpha, Dex. It’s all good until a mysterious witch, Jocasta, appears in a nearby tower, demanding that Dex and Grayson discover the true nature of all Rapunzels. If not, Lady R will return to claim Grayson… and Thornfield will be wiped out by the evil Prism Master. Can Dex and Grayson discover the truth in time? And what will it mean for their growing attraction?

Secrets are revealed and feelings explored in this epic conclusion to the story of Dex and Grayson!

Peek between the pages

Grayson

My escape spell dropped me off on a random floor somewhere. Literally. Talk about awkward. For a moment, all I can focus on is the literal pain in my butt.

“Okay, that hurt,” I murmur.

“Grayson!” Oh, no. That’s the Prism Master.

The mirror dropped me off at the Refraction palace. As in, the one place I did not want to visit.

Rising, I slap on a smile. It’s never worked on the Prism Master before, but it’s not like there are a ton of options here. “I bet you’re wondering how I escaped. You see—”

A shiver runs up my back. It’s so intense, I forget what I was about to say.

What’s happening?

Suddenly, all my nerve endings go on alert. No doubt about it. Someone’s behind me. Inch by inch, I turn around. And there, I see a man.

Not just any man, mind you. He’s the one I’ve daydreamed about. Everything’s perfect, from his strong jawline and full lips to his very long and touchable hair. And the fact that he’s wearing an all-black outfit with a cape? That’s never a bad fashion choice. I may even be drooling a little.

My friend, Elle, keeps telling me that I’ve never met a real guy before. I’ve told to her stop being dramatic. But now? Elle is so right.

The Prism Master addresses the dream man. “If you’ll excuse us, Dex, I must speak with my ward.”

Dex. That’s his name.

I should be worried about the Prism Master and my failed escape attempt. I’m not. Instead, Dex and I stay in a serious state of eye lock. Connections form. Something awakens inside me.

“Dex,” repeats the Prism Master. “I asked you to leave.”

My brows lift. The Prism Master has beaten into my head that I’m a tower tithe, end of story. I must be linked with this Dex. Could he be a Rapunzel? I’d never heard of a male Rapunzel before. But if Dex is one? I’m in.

Dex ignores the Prism Master. “Grayson… Is that your full name?”

“Grayson Eyre,” I reply.

Dex smiles. “Nice to find you.”

My insides get all twisty at those words. I have the strange impulse to grab this guy’s palm and race for the exit. I even raise my hand a little, ready to clasp his.

Suddenly, lights flare all around. A magical wind strikes up. Cords snake out from the mirror behind the Prism Master. A sense of weightlessness surrounds me. Fast as a whip, I’m dragged into the mirror.


About the Author:Christina Bauer thinks that fantasy books are like bacon: they just make life better. All of which is why she writes romance novels that feature demons, dragons, wizards, witches, elves, elementals, and a bunch of random stuff that she brainstorms while riding the Boston T. Oh, and she includes lots of humor and kick-ass chicks, too.

Christina graduated from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School with BA’s in English along with Television, Radio, and Film Production. She lives in Newton, MA with her husband, son, and semi-insane golden retriever, Ruby.

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Monster House Books

Mirrors and Mysteries, Book 9 of Fairy Tales of the Magicorum 

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Towers and Tithes, Book 8 of Fairy Tales of the Magicorum 

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A Christmas Cannoli Kiss by Anne Armistead

I'm continuing the holiday romances with A Christmas Cannoli Kiss, a sweet contemporary romance. Enjoy!

Blurb

When Isabella decides to move back home to Pittsburgh, she doesn't expect to meet her teen crush Nate on the flight home…or to find out that he has come back to turn the beloved neighborhood corner bakery into a parking deck—unless Isabella can cook up a solution that will save the bakery and their romance in time for A Christmas Cannoli Kiss.

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Peek between the pages

Her mind wandered to Nate. To call or not to call? That was the question. He didn’t seem to be her type at this point in their lives. He put out definite player vibes, and she swiped left on players. Why get lost in his damn blue eyes again?

Admit it, though, Bella. You are curious. What did he mean about owing you an explanation?

She needn’t hurry to contact him. He’d be in Pittsburgh until Christmas Eve, which was a week away. She faced enough complications at the moment without layering him into them. She ticked off her to-do’s: shopping for new clothes, purchasing a car, finding a place to live, settling in once the moving van arrived. figuring out a new career.

Whew.

A life reset could be overwhelming, if she let it be. For now, she would enjoy the rental car and Christmas with her best friend and her family. She toyed with the car’s audio system until she located a Christmas music station. While humming along to “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” she couldn’t stop grinning. The lyrics did not apply to her anymore.

No more being home only in my dreams…I’m really home, for good.

Browse my blog for more holiday romances!

Her Sugar Cookie Heart by Sarita Leone

 

Today's holiday romance Her Sugar Cookie Heart is filled with Christmas magic and second chances. 

Blurb

Willie Sharpe and Liz Klein were high school sweethearts but their plans to marry in December 1940 are put on hold when war in Europe calls him away. When he returns to the States, he brings a French wife with him.

Twenty years later, Liz has learned to live with her broken heart. The respected New York artist has moved on. The only reminder of her past are the heart shaped cookies she has the local baker snap in half.

Then Willie shows up out of nowhere looking to rekindle their romance. Will it take Christmas magic for Liz to give him a second chance at love?

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Peek between the pages

“The usual?”

She held up two fingers. They shook ever-so slightly.

“Ah, a two-cookie kind of day.” He removed two of the bakery’s best-selling heart-shaped cookies and set them on baker’s paper on the counter. After grabbing a white bag, he took first one cookie, then the other, and snapped the frosted hearts in half before placing them in the bag and turning down the top. “Just the way you like ‘em.”

“Thanks.” She pushed two quarters across the glass countertop and took the bag from him with a forced smile. Ignoring the voice behind her didn’t mean that it disappeared. He must still be there, a few steps away and close enough to witness her discomfort. “See you tomorrow.”

“You got it, Liz.” The baker gave her a fast wave.

The moment she avoided couldn’t be put off any longer. She turned to leave and came face to face with the man who’d broken her heart as easily as Bigley snapped sugar cookies.

He stood before her an older man, but she would have recognized him anywhere. The same cornflower-blue eyes, smile that raised one edge of his upper lip higher than the other, and soul-penetrating gaze.

“You haven’t changed a bit.” His voice had grown deeper and held a hint of something she couldn’t put her finger on. Experience, maybe. Who could tell? Tiny wrinkles radiated from the corners of his eyes when he smiled. “Still gorgeous.”

Want more holiday romances? Browse my blog or hop over to Amazon and see the full list of The Wild Rose Press Christmas Cookies series.

The Gingerbread Man by Kim Turner

Today's cozy read takes up to Harper Falls. Enjoy!

Blurb

Hannah Tate is raising her children alone after her husband's death. Keeping her homestead running isn't easy but when chores get done that she didn't do, she wonders who her mysterious helper is. Her daughter insists it’s The Gingerbread Man who comes late at night. But Hannah has no time for such nonsense. Or does she?

John Sullivan lives alone outside Harper Falls, trapping for a living. When circumstance bring him to meet the woman he’s been helping in secret, he doesn’t expect to find love once again. But he’ll risk his life more than once to finally hold her forever.

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A Maple Cookie Homecoming by Judy Ann Davis

Today's book is a feel-good story about a small town in Vermont. Julien moved back to his hometown where he reconnects with his high school sweetheart Natalie. He's sweet and charming and instantly liked by all, including Natalie and her little girl. This is a delightful story about second chances with a wonderful cast of characters. It's a quick read for a cozy afternoon. 

Blurb

When Julien Franklin returns home for Christmas after retiring from the military, his first mission is to taste his home town's maple cookies and find office space for his civilian website business. He's delighted to find the apartment above The Book Bin bookstore is for rent and owned by his old high school sweetheart.

Natalie Pinkett, widow and single parent, has some tragic secrets gnawing at her soul, but she needs to rent the empty rooms to help with her many expenses. To complicate matters, an old love will be literally working above her head—and he owns a rambunctious puppy her daughter has fallen in love with.

Can Julien woo the pretty bookstore owner and get her to reveal her painful past? Will the two be able to cross the divide of twenty-four years and find love again?

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Peek between the pages

“I stopped in for a take-out,” Simon said with a bemused look. “I’m not spying on you.”

“You’re welcome to join us,” Natalie offered.

“No, he’s not.” Julien glowered at his little brother and kicked him in the shin under the table. “Right, Simon?” There was more than a tinge of warning in his voice.

“Rats. My shin is telling me I can’t. Sorry, Natalie.” A pained chuckle followed. He took a sip from his to-go cup and eyeballed his brother over the lid.

Natalie raised an eyebrow. “Did you just kick your brother in the shin?”

“I plan to put my foot somewhere else if he doesn’t vamoose.”

“He’s one tough dude.” Simon smirked. “Except for mornings. And I should warn you, Natalie, he can be a very grouchy Grinch.”

I hope you enjoyed today's peek between the pages. Browse recent blog posts for more holiday romances.

Kisses and Lemon Snowflake Cookies by N. Jade Gray

 

Today's cozy romance is Kisses and Lemon Snowflake Cookies by N. Jade Gray. Enjoy!

Blurb

Return to Cedar Bend, CO

Fireman Dustin Keith didn't realize women would be coming out of the woodwork after he posed for the local fundraiser calendar. But the one who catches his eye is a baker with trust issues. Can he scale the wall she's built around her heart, or is fate destined to extinguish the flames of desire before they engulf his heart?

Lauren Badini came to Cedar Bend to lend a helping hand at her aunt's bakery, not fall for Mr. July. The image on the calendar she received last Christmas fueled her fantasies, but the in-person version is too hot to handle. But if life after her ex has taught her anything, it's okay to look...but don't touch.

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Peek between the pages

The crisp odor of burnt cookies wafted through the kitchen at Josie’s Delights. Lauren Badini’s eyes teared up as the acrid smell assaulted her nose. Aunt Josie wouldn’t be happy if the business burned down to the ground.

“No. No. No.” Lauren abandoned her lemon snowflake cookie batter and grabbed a pair of potholders. Smoke poured out of the oven as she lowered the door. A choke escaped as the cloud cloaked her in a moment of darkness. Through the haze she rushed to open the nearby door.

The crisp winter air filtered into the bakery, eliminating some of the smoke. Tears still threatened as she glanced back at the oven. The poor gingerbread men lay curled in a fetal position on the cookie sheet. Great. Murder could be added to her cooking repertoire. Another choke clawed its way up her throat. Her hand shook as she retrieved a potholder to rescue the cookies and deposit the sheet onto a nearby counter.

The pleasant smells from earlier of cinnamon and sweet spices were gone. This wasn’t the best way to start the holiday season.

A shriek escaped as a man burst into the kitchen through the door she’d opened moments before.

His gaze darted about before he exclaimed, “Fire department. Is there a fire?”

“No. Just a lot of smoke.” A wave of her hand didn’t dispel the haze that still hung in the air.

“Ma’am, are you all right?”

“I’m fine, but the gingerbread men didn’t survive.”

His gaze shot to where she pointed. Shivers chased down her spine, and goose bumps rose on her arms as another gust of fresh winter air filtered in from the open door. Who could have guessed when she awoke this morning hypothermia or smoke inhalation would be on her agenda? She wiped her watering eyes and stared at the man standing before her. “Mr. July.” An embarrassed wheeze escaped as she realized she muttered the words aloud. Her aunt had given her the fireman’s calendar from Cedar Bend, Colorado, last year as a Christmas gift. In the kitchen with her was the fireman who posed for July. Her favorite month. And he stood before her fully clothed with a concerned frown upon his face. Did he catch her words?

I have a few more books to finish up the list. See you tomorrow!

Swiss Mistletoe and Macarons by Amey Zeigler

Today's cozy cookie romance is Swiss Mistletoe and Macarons by Amey Zeigler. Enjoy!

Blurb

Baking enthusiast Livi Hanson never misses Jean-Marc's online videos. Hoping to save money for pastry school, she agrees to nanny over Christmas break in Switzerland for generous overtime pay.

To expand his audience, pastry chef and internet star Jean-Marc Dobrinsky scores a contract for a network TV slot with one caveat: he needs an attractive co-host who equals him in the kitchen.

When she's invited to bake with Jean-Marc, Livi must prove she has the culinary chops, and Jean-Marc must put aside his pride. Can they rise to the challenge, or will it flop?

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Peek between the pages

The food looked perfect.

Jean-Marc surveyed the party held in the ballroom of the Grand Hôtel de Vevey. A young woman lingered near his pastries. Her hair tumbled about her shoulders in waves like ribbons of homemade caramel. Her figure had perfect curves. He switched out some platters near her. He’d seen her before, but where?

She brought a pastry to her nose. “A hint of cardamom and clove. Interesting choice.”

He arched a brow. She had to be an experienced smellier to pick out those flavors. He leaned

closer. “Did you try the lavender-honey baklava?”

She glanced up and then stepped back. A gasp left her lips.

He dropped his jaw. The young woman from the epicerie! Did she recognize him from the

store? Did she recognize him from the show?

Her eyes widened. “You!” she said in English.

A pastel blush tinged her cheeks. “Me!” He couldn’t help but be a little tickled at her surprise. A flash hit his stomach. “Where are your children? I hope you got them something to eat.”

Then her eyes narrowed. “They are not my children. And yes, I got them something to eat.”

She pointed to a table where the two sat and ate. “Are you often in the habit of making hungry

children wait for you?”

Not her children? He warmed inside. So she wasn’t their maman. “I needed those

strawberries for tonight.” Did she even know who she was talking to? He smirked.

She thrust up her chin. “You should never be in too much of a rush to be kind.”

“Don’t you think my efforts paid off?” He pointed to his masterpieces. Color and texture

mingled on the table. Aromas of orange, anise, and rose brushed against his nose. The strawberries—the very berries he bought at the last minute—stacked on top of a chocolate cake.

“Your cookies are too crunchy.”

She bit into one as if to prove her point. Sugar cookie crumbs fell from her perfect red lips. Shaking his head, he crossed his arms and studied her jeans, running trainers, and ponytail.

“You must be American.”

Want more holiday romances? Did you see...

Fortune Cookie Christmas by Jeanne Kern 

The Spy Who Loved My Russian Tea Cakes by Marilyn Barr 

Chocolate Chip Christmas Wishes by Nicole McCaffrey 

Snow Kiss Cookies To Die For by Wendy Kendall 

Ginger Snapped by Shelley White 

Ginger Snapped by Shelley White

 

Ginger Snapped was such a fun read filled with friendship and great characters. You might even find yourself swooning for a very handsome and chivalrous park ranger. I know I did. 

 

Blurb

Ranger Eli Vance is done dating crazy redheads. Yet, he still finds himself attracted to one particular camper who seems crazier than usual. Former Scissortail Scout, Chelsea Davis just wants to make it through the alumni campout with her friends without freezing her tail off. She's trying to make the best of it, but the handsome ranger keeps crossing her path at the worst possible moments. He probably thinks she’s nuts. After an accidental night together and an enlightening cookie exchange, they find themselves closer than they'd planned. Does Eli need a little crazy in his life to be happy or are he and Chelsea still too distant to tempt a relationship?

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Peek between the pages

"Be careful, there.” He started following her.

Did he just smile? The corner of his mouth flinched, and his dimple appeared for a split second. She couldn’t worry about that now or—she stumbled back over a small branch and landed in the leaves-- she’d land on her butt. Now she knew for sure he was trying not to laugh at her.

“Do you need a hand up?” He held a gloved hand out to her.

“No! I’ve got it.” Chelsea got to her feet, still keeping her backside hidden. “You know, I think it’s gotten warmer out. My goodness, I don’t even need this.” She unzipped her coat and pulled it off, then tied it around her waist, effectively covering the offending area. The cold penetrated her remaining layers immediately. “P-perfect. I’m g-gonna g-go see if Amy needs help with b-breakfast.” She clenched her teeth together in an effort to keep her jaw still.

“All right, you take care and stay on the paths. It’s not really that warm out. If you’re not feeling the cold anymore, you might be experiencing hypothermia. I’ll follow you back to your campsite to make sure.”

“No! I’m good. I mean, I’m cold, f-freezing, actually. I’m sure I’ll see you later, R-ranger. Have a g-good morning!” She spun around and quickly exited the forest. Once back on the road, she headed back to camp rather than finish her run. She needed dry clothes, hot coffee, and a warm fire, s.t.a.t. That man probably thought her nuts.

Stop back by for more holiday romances. 

Snow Kiss Cookies To Die For by Wendy Kendall

 

Today's book is a thrilling mystery wrapped in a cozy romance. 

Dez’s secret Santa project for her class turns terrifying when a secret admirer stalks her. There are a few suspects, including her new boyfriend. Wendy Kendall did a wonderful job keeping me guessing. Snow Kiss Cookies to Die For is an entertaining novella with a sweet (possibly deadly) romance, strong writing, and great characters. It's a great holiday story and a quick entertaining read.

Blurb

First grade teacher Desiree Tucker is on the brink of winter holidays with her new, romantic boyfriend when danger encroaches on her joy. Ominous, untraceable texts buzz on her cell phone. Terrifying secret Santa gifts show up for her in the classroom. As the stalker moves closer to the prey, Desiree doesn’t know who she can trust. Her charming new man is a prime suspect. Is he a deadly stalker? If not him, who? What can she learn from the legend of the snow kiss cookie? Just when she’s starting to believe in magic again, she finds herself fighting for her life.

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Peek between the pages

Dez made a beeline for her secret Santa stocking. Her excitement matched her students’ as she took down her stocking and reached inside. She pulled out the cardboard, and her heartbeat sped up. One look and her heartbeat pounded.

The card was a picture of Santa in his sleigh with reindeer. Her smile faded seeing a cut out photo of her face pasted on the drawn figure next to Santa. Where did that picture come from? The caption read: Secret Santa may sleigh you if you’re not a good girl

No signature. A secret and creepy Santa. Would Leo give her this? There was a bump in the toe of the stocking. She shook it upside down over the counter and a sprig of holly with berries fell out. From Saturday night’s heart wreath?

Dez looked around, including out the windows. Was anyone watching? The idea of someone putting up a stocking with her name was odd enough, but with this inside? Her phone vibrated. It was from the anonymous sender.

Her hand shook as she clicked on it and read, How did you like your card?

Browse my blog for more holiday romances in The Wild Rose Press Christmas Cookie series.

Chocolate Chip Christmas Wishes by Nicole McCaffrey

Today's book is a match made in the North Pole. 

Blurb

Jake Mistletoe is the North Pole's resident bad boy. Half elf, half human, he is the only child of a single mother who just happens to be Santa's head elf. Fed up with his wild, partying ways and lack of direction, his mother sends him to the real world for a dose of reality.

Lucy Prescott is all alone in this world. Since the death of the grandparents who raised her, she has struggled to keep their Christmas novelty shop running in a dated, dying Christmas-themed tourist town.

When Jake appears in town, magic seems to be in the air. For the first time in ages, life holds excitement, and Lucy finds herself wondering … what if?

Grab your copy

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Peek between the pages

She studied him as he sat up. Unconscious, the several days’ growth of stubble and mussed dark hair looked sloppy. But awake, that disheveled look gave him a devil-may-care aura. How had she missed the chiseled jaw line, the dark brows that framed eyes fringed with long, sooty lashes or the fact that he was drop dead gorgeous?

He looked around the room, wiped a hand over his face and turned a slow half circle on the couch, gaping at the racks of holiday ornaments, animated characters, motion-activated novelties and Santa figures that played Christmas tunes.

She cleared her throat to draw his attention. “Good afternoon.”

He yanked the Santa hat from his head and pulled a frown before tossing it aside.

For lack of anything else to say, she chose the standard, cheery greeting used by locals. “Welcome to Christmasville, where it’s Christmas all year long.”

He turned to her with eyes a startling shade of blue. “Let me guess. I died, and this is Hell.”

Stop by again to discover more holiday romances.

The Spy Who Loved My Russian Tea Cakes by Marilyn Barr

 

The Spy Who Loved My Russian Tea Cakes is a delightful holiday romance full of steamy romance, great writing, and just the right amount of mystery that kept me turning the pages.

Blurb

Reiki Practitioner Cassie Morgan is the black sheep of her family. She would rather work over the Christmas holidays than answer her family’s interrogation about her non-existent love life and career choices. She assures herself it has nothing to do with the handsome coma patient, Sergei Chekov who stars in her dreams.

Sergei wakes from blackness and dreams of a siren’s call. He isn’t sure who he can trust when the woman from his dreams walks into his room with his favorite childhood treat to jog his memory. Despite his attraction to her, he must escape to safety.

Cassie is heartbroken and left with nothing but questions. Who was the woman who convinced her to wake Sergei? Why is the FBI involved? And will she ever see Sergei again or will she be left to pine over the spy who loved Russian tea cakes?

Grab your copy today!

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Peek between the pages

“Of course, but I’m not a nurse. I’m the Reiki—”

“Yes, the spiritual healer. You are the one I meant to find. I knew it the minute I saw you.”

“Great, then lead the way.” I gesture to the stairs behind her and regret not asking her if she would prefer the elevator. Together we shuffle at a snail’s pace.

“My Sergei’s room is the first one at the top of the stairs, dearie.” She puffs with each step. I reach out to help her, but most of our residents find a helping hand to be a dig against their independence. I push open the door to the hall and wait for her to step through. She then waits regally for me to open the door to her son’s room. “Sergei is in bad shape. He needs you to wake him up. He’s in a coma, you see.”

“If he’s not consenting, then I don’t think I can—”

“He would want your help. I know it. As his only relative, I give consent on his behalf. You are his only hope.” She’s on the brink of tears. Her gnarled hands tangle handfuls of her sweater set like she’s wringing out a washrag. My heart pounds. Coma healing is a gray area in the number one rule of energetic healing. Never journey on someone’s behalf without their consent. Would Leslie fault me for calling her so soon after she left?

“Please, for a mother’s love.”

More Christmas cookie romances to come.

Fortune Cookie Christmas by Jeanne Kern

 

Up today is Fortune Cookie Christmas by Jeanne Kern. Enjoy!

Blurb

Haley can’t face Christmas. Her super-critical family always hate her presents and her life. It’s her turn to prepare the holiday dinner, but her apartment kitchen is too small for anything but toast. Besides, she can’t cook.

When a cookie fortune turns out to be an ad—for Madam Zelda, fortune teller—Haley makes a desperate decision.

Chef Zach is the mastermind behind the ad, and he and Zelda show Haley a fortune cookie can be full of surprises, solutions, and love.

Read it today

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Peek between the pages

One day. Only one day. Everything was different. Her family was coming, and the nerves that had been vibrating violin strings were now pulls of taffy. Fortune cookie magic. It was the only explanation.

Browse my blog for more Christmas Cookie books!

Shortbread Shakedown by Sofia Aves

Today's book shakes things up a bit. Enjoy!

About the book

A package determined to derail his scheduled future delivered by a mystery woman. A tiny note hints at who she is—and how to find her.

When veteran and acting Brigadier General Dominic Cage returns from deployment days before Christmas, he's unprepared for the shortbread cookies pressed into his hands in a case of mistaken identity by a stunning woman. Unable to forget her, Cage trusts Violet's promise of a true Christmas—until the lines of his reality blur.

Damaged and resolute, and unable to escape the gunfire that haunts him, Cage's choice could cost them everything.

Grab your copy!

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Peek between the pages

The girl checked over her shoulders with wide eyes, her hair flying at all angles.

“It’s fine,” I held up my hands, palms open, “it happened.” Attempting to cover my ass with a smile, as if I hadn’t just tried to kiss her in the middle of a crowded airport.

She blinked at me. “I’m sorry.”

Sharp corners poked into my palm, a crinkling at waist level diverted my attention to the small package she pressed into my hands. I curled my fingers around it by reflex. In a flurry of honey-colored curls, she disappeared into the crowd that closed over her path.

I hefted the small bag, examining the shortbread cookies wrapped in cellophane. A tiny, yellow ribbon was tied at the top in a neat knot, and a little handmade tag sat to one side. A jaunty sprig of holly propped it up.

To Max, love Violet.

The crowd swelled, disguising her retreat. Carols cranked over the loudspeaker system, overriding the chatter of hundreds of people stuffed into a too—small space.

Plastic reindeer held me with their fixed stare as I pushed my way to where I thought she had headed, her scent dissipating into the crowd around us. I barely registered the man who appeared next to me, taking my bag from my shoulder. My driver introduced himself to deaf ears.

All I wanted was to find the honey-blonde curls of the woman who had ghosted into my life and disappeared.
 

Did you miss these holiday romances?

Luring the Lykan with Almond Macarons by Leslie Brown

The Nutcracker by Jeanna Kern

Red Velvet Crinkles and Christmas Sprinkles by Maria Imbalzano

Snickerdoodle Snowmen by Sarita Leone

Magic and Midnight Mint Bars by Iona Morrison

Macaroons by Moonlight by Annette Miller

Merry Little Wishing Spritz by Cherie Colyer

Coconut Macaroon Scandal Virginia Barlow

Linzer Tarts and Broken Hearts by Carol Henry

Snowdrop Cookie Wishes by Laura Strickland

Kris’s Kringles by Linda Bleser

Kris's Kringles by Linda Bleser

 

Today's chookie romance is Kriss Kringles by Linda Bleser. 

Blurb

Christmas hasn't been the same since Kris Miller's beloved grandmother passed. Every year, she made him a special batch of cookies she named Kris's Kringles. So when he discovers the local cookie contest will publish the winning entry, it seems the perfect legacy to honor her. Unfortunately, there's no record of the secret Kringle recipe.

Single mom, Sophie Lawson's new catering business is barely making ends meet. The opportunity to recreate Kris's grandmother's recipe from memory is almost as tempting as he is. She agrees to help on one condition--he'll have to bake them himself. She has her own entry and desperately needs the cash prize. But when they begin this friendly rivalry, they never expect their growing attraction to include consequences.

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Peek between the pages

"Pizza's here," Sophie's father shouted. He opened the front door and Sophie peeked into the living room. Her jaw dropped when she saw Kris in the doorway balancing two pizza boxes. "Hope you don't mind," he said. "I saw the delivery man in the driveway and took this off his hands. Took care of the bill too, if that's okay." Sophie's father clapped him on the back. "I like this guy."

"Come on in," Marilyn called. "Sophie's told me you'll be working together to develop a prize-winning cookie."

"I hope so," he said. "Where do you want this?"

"On the countertop," Sophie said, leading him into the kitchen. Kris set the pizza box on the counter then took a look at the various packages of flour, sugar and baking ingredients lined up on the other side. "Are you sure I gave you enough money for all this?"

"Plenty," she said, then reached for a package shoved behind a bag of confectioner's sugar. "I had a little left over and bought you this." She held out a black apron with red lips on the bib and the saying Kiss the Cook across the front."

Kris gave her an incredulous look. "You expect me to wear this?"

"Every good cook needs an apron." He wagged an eyebrow.

"And if I do, will you…?"

She grinned. "Don't push your luck. It was the only one they had."

Stop back by to discover more cookie romances.

Snowdrop Cookie Wishes by Laura Strickland

 

Wishes can come true in Snowdrop Cookie Wishes by Laura Strickland. 

Snowdrop Cookie Wishes is a beautifully written story, filled with hope. Lisse is selfless, thoughtful, and caring, and her act of kindness is just what her neighbors need to bring joy to a town hit hard by disease. It’s a 5-star historical novella perfect for a quiet winter afternoon or evening.

About the book

It's been a difficult year in Lissi Johansen's sixteenth-century Danish village. As Christmas approaches, she longs for holidays past when her parents visited their neighbors, distributing cookies and good wishes to all. She hopes to bake a single batch of her mama's Snowdrop Cookies and tuck a gift of magic wishes inside. But she will need help to make the miracle come true.

Miller Ole Andersen is barely hanging on after the loss of his wife and child to the plague. When Lissi begs him for a measure of flour, he's won over by her warmth and generous spirit. He never suspects the events that follow will teach him about the limitless capacity of the heart, or that wishes given away can sometimes be the most magical of all.

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Peek between the pages

He leaned against the edge of the table. “It is good to bring some light into our lives now, at the darkest time.”

He did not mean the winter. She nodded. “As I say, I will not be able to make as many cookies as Mama and Papa did, not enough for everyone in the village. But I am hoping, one perhaps for each household. I hope that may spread some joy. I suppose it is foolish, after all.”

“No, Mistress Johansen, it is not.” He smiled, and his grave face momentarily shone. “You bake your magic in there. It is what we need.”

“Thank you. Thank you for helping me. I will make sure your Hanne gets a cookie.”

He nodded and quickly turned for the door. Were those tears Lissi caught in his eyes?

Linzer Tarts and Broken Hearts by Carol Henry

 

Today I'm excited to spotlight this tasty treat Linzer Tarts & Broken Hearts by Carol Henry. 

Blurb

Christmas Cookie baking isn’t the only thing that’s heating up in the kitchen. Amber Talbot’s daughter, Beth, has invited her new best friend, Joanna, to bake Christmas cookies this year. Officer Jace Gunderson, single dad, insists on checking out the family first. From there, thanks to the two inseparable first graders, Amber and Jace’s lives intertwine over the holidays where they, too, become inseparable. But Amber doesn’t need another lawman in her life. Her first husband was killed in the line of duty. Can Jace win her over, despite her reluctance to commit to their fledgling relationship? Or will Amber reject his advances and ruin everyone’s Christmas?

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Peek between the pages

“You know, Mr. Gundersen, I’m beginning to feel as if I’m being interrogated. I’m familiar with how you lawmen work, even if they aren’t in uniform. I was married to one, you know. I’m sure you’ve already done a preliminary check, and know a lot about me already.”

“No, ma’am, just curious. I thought you looked familiar, and then remembered seeing you looking out the window, and meeting you when I was on call at a domestic a couple weeks ago. Wondered how you managed to go from that neighborhood to this place.”

“Well, now you know. Anything else you’d like me to clear up for you?”

He couldn’t help but grin at her. She had gumption, turning the tables on him.

They both sipped cider, looked over at their daughters in an uncomfortable silence. Until she turned to him with a raised eyebrow and looked directly at him with those green eyes, that sparkled.

“So, tell me, Mr. Gundersen…”

“Jace.”

“Jace. Where is Mrs. Gundersen?

Come back tomorrow to discover more books!